The UK has welcomed the world’s first dual-fuelled ammonia-powered vessel to its shores, marking an important step forward in maritime decarbonisation.
The Singapore-flagged vessel Fortescue Green Pioneer has arrived in the UK to demonstrate the viability of ammonia as a sustainable marine fuel. The vessel is the first of its kind, powered by a four-stroke engine, two of which are capable of being fuelled by ammonia and diesel.
It’s great to welcome this pioneering, first-of-a-kind vessel to UK shores – this is exactly the kind of innovation that will drive forward decarbonisation in the shipping sector.
… said Maritime Minister, Mike Kane
To support Fortescue Green Pioneer’s time in the UK, the vessel and team have been working closely with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) to ensure full compliance with UK regulatory requirements.
The MCA will conduct thorough inspections and checks to ensure the vessel’s safety and operational readiness for its onward journey. It has been a pleasure working in collaboration with Fortescue to bring this innovative vessel to Europe, and we are excited that the shift to a more sustainable marine fuel and a world’s first is being showcased here in the UK.
… commented MCA Director of UK Customer Services, Lars Lippuner
Fortescue Green Pioneer docked on 1 March at the Port of Southampton, where Port State Control inspections will be conducted by the MCA’s Survey and Inspection team.
The vessel will then travel to West India Dock in London, operated by Canal and River Trust, to showcase its technology and capabilities to key maritime stakeholders, partners and the public.
With the right character and leadership, they can chart a course towards a more sustainable future for the planet and advance a dramatic reduction in shipping costs through the widespread adoption and scaling of renewable sources. This opportunity cannot be missed
… noted Fortescue Executive Chairman and Founder, Dr Andrew Forrest.
To remind, almost a year ago, Fortescue, with the support from the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) government agencies, research institutes, and industry partners, conducted the world’s first use of ammonia, in combination with diesel in the combustion process, as a marine fuel onboard the the Fortescue Green Pioneer, in the Port of Singapore.
